8 Las Vegas Hotels That Have to Be Seen to Be Believed — Best Life (2023)

Las Vegas is one of the most visited cities in the U.S.—and with good reason. Not only is it home to some of the best casinos in the country, but in a 2022 survey, Sin City snagged the number one slot of "happiest holiday destinations" in North America, thanks to its wide range of daytime activities and attractions as well as high safety score. It's also brimming with award-winning restaurants, world-class entertainment, nonstop pool parties—and of course, impressive luxury hotels. And speaking of the hotels, Vegas is known for having particularly extravagant properties.

"Few cities anywhere can compete with the standard of service and famous theming offered in Vegas," says Jim Campbell, CEO & Founder of HoneymoonGoals.com. "Is there anywhere else on earth where visitors have the choice of staying in Ancient Egypt, Rome, or Paris—complete with a mock-up Eiffel tower that's over half the height of the famous original? Vegas operates on a totally different level entirely, which is part of its appeal."

From the five-star service to the opulent décor, some Vegas properties are so over-the-top that they truly have to be seen to be believed.

"Here, nothing is too big, too bold, or too gauche. It's precisely that spirit that sets hotels here apart from anywhere else," says travel blogger Rose Campau.

Below, travel experts share a few of their favorite accommodations for that VIP treatment and an extra memorable getaway.

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The Most Amazing Hotels in Las Vegas

1. The Luxor Resort & Casino

It's hard to miss this 30-story glass pyramid-shaped hotel—which, fittingly, is named after a famous Egyptian city.

A massive casino, IMAX theater, and restaurants galore occupy the first level, while the sides of the atrium are lined with the hotel's more than 4,400 rooms. As for navigating between the floors—that's done via special elevators that slide up the sides at a 39-degree angle.

There's plenty to see and do at the Luxor, says Campbell. Pick up a few souvenirs at one of the dozens of shops, scope out a world-class exhibition about the RMS Titanic with over 250 artifacts recovered from the wreck, or even take in a show.

"The Luxor happens to be home to the famous Blue Man Group, a visual extravaganza that's super fun and great for all ages," adds Campbell.

Jon Callahan, founder and CEO of OwtDores, calls staying at the Luxor an "experience like no other. The room was very spacious, the services were immaculate."

Whatever you do, just don't forget to take a selfie with the enormous replica sphinx out front.

2. The Venetian Resort

Itching to fly off to Venice, but can't afford the sky-high flight price? With winding canals, high mural-painted ceilings, captivating gold sculptures, and marble floors, this resort offers the next best thing.

"At a time when traveling abroad was restricted, The Venetian Resort transported me to Italy," says travel advisor and blogger Sally Gachunji. "It's a tribute to Italian opulence and lust for life."

For Gachunji and many other travelers, the highlight here is the romantic gondola rides—which offer a leisurely float along under bridges and balconies as your opera-singing gondolier guides the way.

The Venetian, which is conveniently set right in the heart of the Vegas strip, also boasts spectacular restaurants with celebrity chefs, an on-sight nightclub, a five-acre pool and garden deck, numerous designer shops, a 120,000-square foot casino and poker room, and one of the largest day spas in the entire world.

3. The Cosmopolitan

Expect unparalleled people watching and celeb treatment at this luxurious resort, where people go to see and be seen and sample the more than 30 renowned restaurants. And you can't beat the location—which is right near the Bellagio fountains and Caesar's Palace.

"If you want the new Vegas experience personified, stay at the Cosmopolitan—its glitz and glamour are second to none," says Andrew Uyal, the travel blogger behind Flights and Footsteps. "As a bonus, it has the best club and concert hall on the strip."

Choose from three distinct pool decks depending on your desired vibe—relaxing in the Nevada sun or partying the afternoon away. Erwan Mevel, editor of Las Vegas Jaunt, recommends scoping out The Chandelier, a glittering multi-story bar and lounge with a posh environment and unforgettable cocktails.

"Beyond the amazing accommodations, the hotel offers a wide range of entertainment options, including a theatre and a swanky speakeasy tucked away behind a barbershop janitor's door," explains Jenny Ly, a professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly.

Pro tip: If you're looking to go big on your Vegas trip, splurge for one of the 2,400-square-foot Chelsea Penthouses with a private terrace and panoramic city view.

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4. Wynn Las Vegas

This iconic high-rise hotel boasts a lavish casino, and plush suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, whirlpool tubs, granite wet bars, and even massage rooms.

"A beautiful resort for guests of all ages, the Wynn Las Vegas features manicured gardens and exciting entertainment options," says Mathew Bowley, marketing manager at Solmar Villas.

Bowley says kids will love The Lake of Dreams—a free multimedia show with colorful characters, unique lighting, and a curtain that transforms into a cascade—while adults will appreciate the two luxe spas, 18-hole golf course, gourmet restaurants, and four trendy night clubs. When packing your suitcase, though, just remember that the policy here is to dress to impress: elegant business attire is required for all guests, so no shorts or sandals are allowed.

"What makes Wynn unique is also the fact that it is home to an extensive art collection displayed across the resort," adds Mevel. "The famous tulips and Popeye sculptures by artist Jeff Koons are regularly on display inside the Wynn Plaza, the on-site luxury shopping mall."

5. Nobu Hotel Las Vegas

If you're looking for a more intimate experience, this Japanese-inspired boutique hotel—which is known for its tranquil, Zen-like vibe and sleek, minimalist design—features just 182 rooms.

But make no mistake: while it may be slightly smaller than some of the other mammoth resorts on the Strip, you'll still have a bevy of impressive amenities at your fingertips since it's located in the middle of Caesar's Palace. In other words, it's the best of both worlds—you can dodge the rowdy bachelorette parties when you want to but still have access to shopping, dining, nightlife, and casinos.

"The Zen garden alone is worth the trip to this hotel," says Bijoy Shah, a concierge luxury travel advisor.

When you're feeling peckish, head down to the largest Nobu restaurant in the world—or order sushi delivery right to your room.

6. The Cromwell

Experts call this hotel and casino a little slice of Vegas paradise, thanks to the massive rooftop nightclub with a palm-tree lined pool complex, casino with private VIP slots and nightly entertainment, state-of-the-art game day viewing options, and elegant rooms with retro finishings. The location is prime, too: It's situated right across the street from Caesar's Palace, and a stone's throw from the Bellagio fountains.

As an added bonus, The Cromwell boasts an elegant on-site Italian restaurant created by celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis.

"Vibrant style and Parisian touches make this property infinitely Instagrammable," says Shah. "It offers the right amount of class without some of the crass of dated properties."

7. The Waldorf Astoria

Eager to escape the casino chaos? The Waldorf Astoria promises a mellower vibe: It's gambling-free, smoke-free, and chock full of incredible wellness-focused amenities for the ultimate self-care getaway.

"With its reputation as one of the city's finest luxury hotels, this establishment offers its guests peaceful accommodations and a variety of ways to unwind," says Bowley. "Indulge in a full-body massage at the 27,000-square-foot spa and then work up a sweat in the high-tech gym or the tranquil yoga room."

The resort's eighth level features three outdoor pools, two hot tubs, and cabanas where guests can kick back with a refreshing cocktail. Stop by the tea lounge late afternoon for an herbal boost before getting pampered at the on-site salon, and grabbing a gourmet French feast at the Twist by the Michelin-rated chef Pierre Gagnaire.

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8. The Bellagio

A list about jaw-dropping Vegas properties wouldn't be complete without a mention of the Bellagio—and not only because it's home to the iconic fountain display. This Tuscan-themed resort has continued to maintain its high-class atmosphere through the years, and it's also conveniently located right in the middle of all the action.

"Amidst all of the glitz and glamour, the Bellagio in my opinion stands out as a true gem," says Nicolai Lonne, founder of DIVEIN. "The fountains are a magnificent display of water in motion, set to music, and the choreography is truly breathtaking."

Upon arrival, it's impossible not to notice the massive ceiling installation of Dale Chihuly blown-glass flowers, and the jaw-dropping Conservatory & Botanical Garden with changing seasonal displays of flowers and kinetic sculptures. The enormous spa features 56 treatment rooms, and a menu of services inspired by Egypt, Thailand, India, and Bali. Meanwhile, the 6,000-square-foot fitness center, which features a view of the gardens and pristine pool, boasts tons of state-of-the-art equipment and invigorating daily fitness classes.

Foodies and art buffs alike will adore dining at Picasso, an elegant French eatery that displays original Picasso paintings—or, if you're looking for an uber-romantic date night, enjoy some Italian-style tapas with a fountain view at Lago.